Firebreak: meaning, definitions and examples
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firebreak
[ ˈfaɪərbreɪk ]
forest management
A firebreak is a cleared strip of land that acts as a barrier to slow down or stop the progress of a wildfire. It is created by removing vegetation and other flammable materials to reduce the risk of fire spreading. Firebreaks are commonly used in forest management, agricultural areas, and residential developments to protect communities and natural resources. They can vary in width and may also include the use of materials such as gravel or dirt to further inhibit the fire. Implementing firebreaks is an essential strategy in wildfire prevention and control.
Synonyms
fire barrier, fire guard, fire line.
Examples of usage
- The firefighters created a firebreak to protect the nearby homes.
- During the dry season, they reinforced the firebreak to prevent wildfires.
- Proper planning of firebreaks can save vast areas of forest.
- The local government invested in building new firebreaks around the community.
Translations
Translations of the word "firebreak" in other languages:
🇵🇹 cortafogo
🇮🇳 अग्निशामक
🇩🇪 Brandschneise
🇮🇩 jalur pemisah api
🇺🇦 протипожежна смуга
🇵🇱 pas ochronny przeciwpożarowy
🇯🇵 防火帯
🇫🇷 coupe-feu
🇪🇸 cortafuegos
🇹🇷 yangın kesici
🇰🇷 방화선
🇸🇦 حاجز النار
🇨🇿 požární pás
🇸🇰 požiarna pásma
🇨🇳 防火带
🇸🇮 protivpožarni pas
🇮🇸 eldvarnarlína
🇰🇿 өртке қарсы белдеу
🇬🇪 ცეცხლის გაკონტროლების ზოლი
🇦🇿 yanğın kəsici
🇲🇽 cortafuego
Etymology
The term 'firebreak' has its roots in the combination of 'fire' and 'break', reflecting its purpose in preventing the spread of fire. The word 'fire' derives from the Old English 'fyr', which described the phenomenon of combustion, one of the most ancient and essential elements of human existence. The concept of creating barriers or breaks to control fire likely dates back to early human settlements when communities needed to protect themselves from wildfires. The term 'break' comes from the Old English 'broc', meaning a breaking or interruption. The modern usage of the term 'firebreak' became more prominent in the 20th century as forestry practices evolved and the need for wildfire management strategies grew. Firebreaks are now an integral part of fire management and ecology, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures in preserving both human life and natural habitats.